Extended Validation SSL

1774: A Stratford Hall Christmastide

Colonial Heritage Society Dancers

Saturday, December 10, 2011, 4:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Christmastide was celebrated differently in late-18th-century Virginia. Many of the holiday trappings familiar to the current generation were unknown to the Lees of Stratford. Though there may not have been a Christmas tree, Santa Claus, or stockings hanging from a mantel, there would have been a bountiful table, games, greenery and music. Stratford Hall would have been a place filled with the spirit of the season, welcoming friends, family and guests.

Washington's Camerata

Members of the George Washington's Young Friends, playing traditional music, will greet holiday guests in the Visitor Center, introducing them to another world--the world of December 10, 1774. Guests will hear the sounds of revelry, drumming and rifle shots heralding the season. Wood-burning flambeaux will illuminate the landscape, adding their light to dozens of candle lanterns guiding the way to the Great House. Don't be surprised to encounter personages from another era who will gladly discuss (perhaps with a hint of modern dialect) any subject of the day. Inside the Great House, music will fill the air. The renowned Washington's Camerata, a period instrument ensemble, will perform two concerts in the Hall, one at 5:30-6:15 p.m. and a second at 6:45-7:30 p.m.

Linger, listen, and, just for a moment, forget that it is the 21st century.

Visitors enjoy the Bonfire

Stratford Hall's Christmastide will be a breathtaking and memorable visit for the whole family.

Admission: $10 adults; $5 for children under 12. No discount for FOS cardholders for this event.

Ready for Christmas Dinner

Dinner Information A special Christmas dinner will be served in the Stratford Hall Dining Room, with seating times at 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. The cost of the meal is $50.00 (ages 12 and up), $25.00 (ages 6-11), and children age 5 and under are free. This price includes a $10.00 tour ticket, dinner and beverage, tax and gratuity. Dinner is by reservation only. Please call (804)493-8038, ext.8039, or e-mail lbrooks@stratfordhall.org for meal information and dinner reservations. Reservations are by credit card only, and the credit card will be charged for the full amount one week prior to the dinner. The dinner menu consists of Baked Brie en croute, Artichoke and crab dip, Holiday salad with raspberry vinaigrette (Romaine, onions, cranberries and walnuts), Prime Rib, Mini Chicken Tournedos, Virginia Baked Ham with a pineapple chutney and dried cranberries, Scalloped Potatoes au gratin, Green Beans, Carrot Duchesse, Bread and Butter, Creme Brulee, assorted pies and cakes, Iced Tea or Coffee. We will be offering Fried Oysters for purchase to be served a la carte. Our local, fresh oysters, lightly fried and served with cocktail sauce, will be cooked to order. You can order as many as your like, and our servers will bring them to your table for your enjoyment. Wine and Beer are available for purchase upon request.